HARTFORD — Connecticut's governor says his state is used to snow storms but not the bitter cold that has been predicted.

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy said 2004 was the last time temperatures in the state dropped to zero. That's why there's been an effort to reach out to the homeless and make sure they have a warm place to stay Thursday, as a coastal storm bears down on the Northeast. He urged people to call 211 if they need shelter.

Forecasters are calling for the storm to drop a half of foot of snow or more across the state, with the heaviest falling Thursday night.

Malloy called for the staggered, early release of state workers to ease traffic congestion. All non-essential state employees should report back to work Friday at 9:30 a.m.